September usually screams back-to-school and runways, but this year’s New York Fashion Week was also a jewelry takeover. Forget handbags—fine jewelry is making the loudest statement in luxury right now, and the industry’s resilience is undeniable.
Muse x Nordstrom: Wholesale to Retail Queen
Jennifer Shanker, founder of Muse, showed why jewelry retail strategy matters. After her Muse x Muse boutique opened uptown, she partnered with Nordstrom for a curated showcase that felt more like an insider’s lounge than a store. Guests like Allison Williams and Stacy London weren’t just shopping—they were flexing with gems in pastel-velvet cases while catching up with industry power players.
Jessica McCormack: Zoe Kravitz, Cocktails, and Couture Gems
British jeweler Jessica McCormack brought her London cool to Madison Avenue. To celebrate her new flagship, she turned The Frick Collection into a glittering playground, with Zoe Kravitz co-hosting. Between cocktails, art, and diamonds, it was less “launch event” and more “you had to be there” moment.
Alexis Bittar: When Jewelry Becomes Social Commentary
Alexis Bittar doesn’t do quiet. His Spring 2026 presentation at Abrons Arts Center staged a surreal ’90s beauty pageant, calling out misogyny and attacks on trans rights. With trans contestants—including Vivian Jenna Wilson, Elon Musk’s daughter—this wasn’t just jewelry, it was a statement about identity, politics, and power. It also reminded everyone: jewelry isn’t just sparkle, it’s rebellion.
Presley Oldham: Pearls, Glass, and Pure New York Energy
Presley Oldham’s debut fine jewelry collection at W Hotel Union Square mixed 14K gold with his signature pearls, plus colorful glass stones sourced from Tokyo and Hong Kong. He even expanded into home objects—glass dishes, candles, tassels—blurring the line between jewelry and lifestyle. Collaborations with Mara Hoffman and Zankov show how sustainable gemstones and creative design are shaping tomorrow’s jewelry culture.
Bernard James: Sky-High Jewelry Dreams
CFDA/Vogue finalist Bernard James went big—literally. Hosting his first NYFW presentation at One Domino Square’s 40th floor, he immersed guests with touch, sound, and taste (yes, sake martinis included). His “Crushed Collection,” inspired by a jeweler’s mistake, became an asymmetrical masterpiece, while his rooftop display overlooking the East River felt like jewelry meets architectural installation.
The Bottom Line
From uptown boutiques to activist art performances, NYFW proved fine jewelry isn’t playing supporting role anymore. It’s front row, headline-making, and redefining luxury culture in real time. Ethical jewelry, bold design, and cultural commentary—this is where fashion and jewelry finally collide.